Is it permissible to eat the meat of a cow that has been struck on its forehead with a tool before slaughter, and is it permissible to eat from that which has been declared lawful without further inquiry, and is abstaining from such foods an act of piety?

Summary of the Fatwa: Stunning that ends an animal's life before slaughter renders the slaughtered animal carrion, which is impermissible to eat. However, if it merely weakens the animal and its life remains until slaughter, then it is permissible. It is safer to abstain from eating such meat and to rely on animals slaughtered in a proper manner. The fundamental principle is that the slaughter of a Muslim or a person of the Book is permissible, but if there is a prevalent lack of adherence to the rules of slaughter, then it should not be eaten unless its permissibility is verified, as a precaution against doubts and for safety.